Chamber presidents invite members to fast for a day

Three presidents from the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce group are inviting members of the business community to experience the spirit of Ramadan by fasting for a day on Thursday 21 March.

Asian Business Chamber president Omar Rashid, Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber president Naeem Arif and Future Faces president Kasim Choudhry are hosting an iftar event – where the fast is opened - at the GBCC’s 54 Hagley Road headquarters on Thursday 21 March.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community.

Fasting from dawn to sunset is obligatory for all adult Muslims who are not acutely or chronically ill, travelling, elderly, breastfeeding, diabetic, or menstruating.

The predawn meal is referred to as suhur, and the nightly feast that breaks the fast is called iftar.

Members of the business community from all faiths are being invited to fast for a day on 21 March.

They can then join fasting colleagues and friends at the Chamber’s iftar event, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

The event is open to members of all ages, backgrounds and faiths who wish to celebrate diversity and promote unity.

Kasim Choudhry said: “I regularly invite friends to fast for a day, to understand what this means.

“Most people are still shocked that we go without food and water from sunrise to sunset.”

Omar Rashid said: “It is not just about abstaining from food and drink, it is also a time to refrain from other bad habits, such as inappropriate thoughts, or holding back your temper.”

Naeem Arif said: “I love how during this month, many families and communities make the time to come together, to eat together. It brings together a real community feel.”

Find out more information about the fast for a day initiative and register for the event.

Pictured: Omar Rashid, Naeem Arif and Kasim Choudhry